French hospital to open wine bar to cheer up terminally ill

The French have long been famed for their unshakeable belief in the health benefits of a glass of wine. Now, a hospital in the French city of Clermont-Ferrand will open a wine bar where terminally ill patients will be able to enjoy a “medically-supervised” glass or two with their families.

Why should we refuse the charms of the soil to those at the end of their lives? Nothing justifies such an prohibition.

Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital Center in statement

The first of its kind in France, the bar would “cheer up the difficult day-to-day existence of patients,” head of the center said. The bar would also allow families facing bereavement to “create moments of conviviality” despite being in a hospital environment, she added. In addition to wine, the bar will also stock beer, whisky and champagne.

It’s a little detail but it can make all the difference.

Virginie Guastella, hospital palliative care center chief

Health wine hospital